1. Describe the program recently launched by the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)? (Why has APHIS launched this program? What is the purpose of the program?)

2. Why were farmers opposed to an earlier voluntary version of the program?

3. How is the new program different from the first livestock ID program APHIS tried implementing?

4. Why are cattle (dairy cows and beef cattle) the focus of this program?

5. What concerns do cattle ranchers like Kenny Fox of South Dakota have about the new program?

6. Read about the USDA and APHIS under "Background" below the questions. Think about the pros and cons of APHIS's livestock ID program. Do you think this is a beneficial program for consumers? for farmers/ranchers? Explain your answer.